fbpx
Connect with us

Original Content

MXCK Interview: BLND Co. Is Not Your Average Clothing Line

Published

on

IMG 0442

In recent years, the fashion industry in the city of Boston has boomed. Some may call their clothing line more of a lifestyle, while others are looking to make a quick buck using their apparel as revenue for their music careers.

However, an up and coming line ‘BLND’ is using their apparel to change people’s perspectives. Created by Harry Scales & Armani Reed, the duo describes their brand as an ‘avenue of their expressions’ and a way of manifesting their dreams. Though clothes will not be the sole purpose of this brand, Scales & Reed wanted to make a point that they most certainly have something to bring to the table and would not be limited by the ideas and fears of others.

[Tweet “We also aren’t solely focused on the clothes. That avenue is going to prove to be only a fraction of who we are. It’s just the initial phase. We have a lot in store.”]

In the interview below, Blind Co.’s Armani Reed & Harry Scales go in depth about the meaning behind the abbreviation BLND, their views on whether or not the fashion industry in the city is oversaturated, what they want their audience’s biggest take way to be, and more.

static1.squarespace

Give us a little bit of background about who you guys are and how’d you got into the clothing industry.

Two people from Boston with an idea we wanted to bring to light. The clothing was auxiliary.

What’s the definition behind BLND? How did it get started and what does it mean to you?

BLND is the abbreviated form of the company’s longer name, Blind Co. The name stems from a blog that Harry started a few years back called “A Blind Man Walking” where he would share some of his poetry & photography. The idea behind the name was that he felt he was on a journey through life with no real idea of where that life was taking him & in that sense blind to what the future had in store. He also saw the blind man walking as the man who did not fall victim to prejudices & preconceived notions when encountering others along his journey. He felt as though the eyes had been compromised in their ability to see through to the soul of a person & therefore held their influence to a minimum. This became the foundation that BLND was built on.

blndowners

BLND OWNERS: Harry Scales (R) & Armani Reed (L)

What’s the biggest take away you want people to get from the line?

The biggest thing we want people to take away from our brand is the freedom that comes with genuinely expressing yourself & your ideas.

Do you think the city is becoming oversaturated with clothing lines? What sets you apart from others?

Much like the music industry, we’re at a place now where people have easy access to a world in which they’re able to express themselves & strive for self-employment & in our opinion that’s a beautiful thing. We’re seeing new, creative work from people all the time & it’s exciting. As long as the work is honest there’s space for it.

We feel as though our ability to separate ourselves from others will be our commitment to our own voices. We, naturally, all echo many of the same sentiments, as is the case with art of all mediums, but no two voices are the same. As long as we can stay true to that idea, that we represent a unique voice, however subtle, we won’t have to worry too much about disappearing among the crowd.

We also aren’t solely focused on the clothes. That avenue is going to prove to be only a fraction of who we are. It’s just the initial phase. We have a lot in store.

What has the support been like since deciding to start the brand?

The support has been overwhelming. It’s really poured in from everywhere & it’s all felt extremely genuine. It seems as though people really rock with what we introduced with this initial launching phase of the business. We’re excited to see what we can do with the momentum.

Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

Things have honestly been extremely difficult. There were a lot of things we had to overcome in our personal lives over the last few years. At one point we had completely abandoned the project. It feels surreal being where we are now.

Let’s touch on your thoughts on the city of Boston. What do you like the most and the least?

[Tweet “We feel Boston is a city with a lot of untapped potential.”]

There are a lot of talented younger people working on a lot of things & we feel like the city’s scene is about to diversify & split from the monotony of blue collar bars & clubs that never quite quench your thirst. Poets, musicians, artisans, & artists of all sorts are pushing for their turn in the light & we’re about it.

IMG 0454

BLNDCO

Lastly, when does BLND officially launch?

BLNDCO.COM … OPEN NOW!

Apparel:

BLNDCO’s clothing line contains t-shirts, crewnecks, long-sleeves, and more ranging between $25-$42. They can be purchased at BLNDCO.com

Continue Reading

Culture

Nigerian Artists to Watch Out for in 2024

Published

on

Nigerian Artists to Watch Out for in 2024 miixtapechiick


Afrobeats, a captivating fusion of hip-hop and electronic elements with West African rhythms, has become a global sensation in the music industry. Although well-known heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido still dominate the scene, a new generation of gifted musicians is emerging and has the potential to propel the genre to new heights.

In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of stars like Rema, Asake, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Libianca, Fireboy DML, and a host of others armed with unique sounds, captivating lyricism, and undeniable stage presence, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats by infusing it with elements of R&B, pop, and even alternative sounds.

This year, the Nigerian music industry is experiencing a surge in popularity from a new breed of talents. Let’s meet the Nigerian artists you need to know:

Qing Madi

Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known by her stage name Qing Madi, is a multi-talented Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who is shaping 4music with her distinctive blend of pop, soul, R&B, and Afrobeats. Her breakthrough single, “Why,” released in 2023, quickly gained popularity, marking her arrival in the Nigerian music scene. Her unique style and artistic ability are harmoniously blended in “Why,” a song that mixes melodicism and an irresistible rhythmic drive.

With her self-described Afro-R&B sound, Qing Madi has boldly carved out her own musical niche while elegantly following in the footsteps of famous Afrobeat giants. Qing Madi recently unveiled her latest project, inviting listeners to experience the unique melodies and lyrical depth woven into each track. The self-titled project “Qing Madi” showcases the artist’s dedication to her craft, further solidifying her position as a significant figure and one to watch out for in 2024. “American Love” is one track off the EP that is promising, and I suggest everyone take a listen. Listen here.

Oladapo

Nigerian musician Tonade Oladapo Adetunji, better known by his stage name Oladapo, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and performer. His sound, described as “Afro-fusion,” combines highlife and R&B melodies with unique contemporary elements, all artistically complemented with elements of his native Yoruba and Nigerian Pidgin. His listeners are taken on a never-ending musical journey by his soulful vocals and artistic vision.

Oladapo’s newest body of work, “IN CASE I NEVER LOVE AGAIN (ICINLA),” is poised to win hearts once more. A story of poignant intimacy, the 10-track project offers a cathartic journey for people who have felt the pain of unfulfilled emotional connections. Listen here.

Morravey

Daniella Daniel Ibinabo is a singer, songwriter, and creative who goes by the stage name Morravey. With her soulful vocals, this fast-rising R&B musician has undoubtedly captured the eye of the Nigerian audience, going from making covers to becoming an online sensation. Recognized for contributing her beautiful yet exceptional vocals on “In the Garden,” one of the most celebrated albums of 2023, “Timeless” by Davido.

The buzz surrounding Morravey’s debut EP, RAVI, which consists of five mesmerizing tracks, is growing. The EP, released on November 2, 2023, includes the top-charting track “Magician,” a collaboration with Davido. Listen here.

Winny

Winifred Ohili Adanu, popularly known as Winny, is a talented artist from Nigeria. With her unique vocal delivery and a sound that combines R&B/Soul, Afro, and reggae, the gifted singer offers her music a distinct edge. Inspired by artists such as Chris Brown, Wizkid, Chronixx and Kranium, Winny aims to convey love, compassion, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging through her music and songwriting.

Winny proves she’s one to watch with her breakout self-titled EP “WINNY.” Her breathtaking single, “Pretty,” is a lovely song with excellent writing and composition. It debuted in the Top 200 of the Apple R&B/Soul Chart in Nigeria, Kenya, the Congo, and the Gambia. Listen here.

Kold AF

Aninooritsewarami Alero Oritsesan, a Nigerian rising star with a unique voice and style who goes by her stage name Kold AF, has proven why she is a queen in her own world and deserves everyone’s time and attention. Through her popular song covers, the rapidly budding artist has gradually and steadily grown her fan base.

Her recently released body of work titled “KOLLIDE” showcases her genre-bending ability that shares the spotlight with her superb songwriting. Kold AF is making a difference with her distinct style in Nigerian music by experimenting with Pop and R&B, complemented with dancehall style. She is showing signs of being a force to be reckoned with. Listen here.

Continue Reading

Culture

The Rise of R&B Music in Africa

Published

on

The Rise of R&B Music in Africa miixtapechiick Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gengetone


The world’s music industry has always been inspired by Africa, the continent of rich cultural heritage. In the African music scene, R&B is experiencing a significant comeback, despite the historical dominance of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gengetone, and other genres. This is an exciting development for the continent.

Africa’s R&B scene is proof of African musicians’ uniqueness, versatility, and creativity. R&B has always been associated with romantic themes and soulful songs, but African musicians are giving the genre a distinctive new direction by incorporating elements of their own cultures and musical tastes.

Africa has a never-ending love for good R&B; South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, and Uganda have the highest R&B listenership on Spotify. Collaborations between international superstars and African musicians in the R&B genre are becoming more frequent than they were a decade ago, mostly due to this tremendous rise.

From the mesmerizing strains of “Big FU” by David Guetta, featuring Nigeria’s finest Ayra Starr, to the captivating melodies of “Sensational” by Chris Brown, Davido, and Lojay, and Travis Scott jumping on Tyla‘s “Water,” one of Africa’s breakout songs of 2023. Africa’s stars are shining bright on the world stage.

And now, African singers are also connecting with one another to release global hits all on their own.

Soulful vocals combined with modern production techniques, Afrobeat loops, and traditional African rhythms are being skillfully blended by musicians all throughout the globe. This blend produces a sound that not only resonates with listeners but also bridges the gap between the past and the present.

In Africa, R&B is growing in popularity more than ever. We see that the power of music transcends all borders, whether by location or generation, as this global journey spreads like wildfire.

Continue Reading

Culture

Lil Durk Cancels Rolling Loud Performance & ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour’ Dates

Published

on

Lil Durk Cancels Rolling Loud Performance & ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour’ Dates
Josh Brasted/FilmMagic

Lil Durk has made the difficult decision to cancel his much-anticipated Rolling Loud Miami performance and a significant portion of his ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour.’

The announcement comes after the rapper was recently hospitalized for dehydration and exhaustion, as reported by TMZ. Lil Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, expressed his regret at being unable to take the stage but prioritizes his health and well-being above all else. Despite the setbacks, the artist remains positive and is looking forward to resuming his performances as soon as he receives medical clearance.

“Since I’m still awaiting to get full clearance from my doctors to travel and perform again, I have no other choice but to cancel my headlining Rolling Loud performance.,” Durk said in a statement to Akademiks. “While I’m home resting, I am looking forward to my two homecoming shows on the 11th & 12th in Chicago. For the rest of the country, I’ll be announcing new dates soon. #StillHealing”

Despite the unfortunate circumstances leading to the tour’s postponement, there are still some bright spots for fans. Five of Lil Durk’s shows remain unaffected by the cancellation. Among the unaffected performances are two hometown shows set to take place at Chicago’s United Center, with one of them being an appearance at 107.5 WGCI Summer Jam on August 12.

Continue Reading

Trending